My research concentrates on a social history of the hosiery industry in the Hinckley
area. The work undertaken may be divided into three parts – the historical background
which commenced with the introduction of the framework knitting machine into
Hinckley by William Iliffe in 1640; an outline of power-driven factory production
which commenced in the mid nineteenth century; and, oral history research into factory
life and the social lives of people from managing directors, supervisors through to
overlockers, linkers, folders, baggers knitters, mechanics, counterman and union
officials. The research relies heavily on the wealth of recorded memories carried out
over a number of years.
Framework knitting degenerated rapidly from a respected craft in the early years into a
depressed trade. The framework knitter had little choice but to employ the help of his
family in order to eke out a living. Parliamentary Papers highlight the plight of the
families. Nevertheless, people were reluctant to change to factory-based production.
However, by the 1890s the inevitable change had taken place.
The hosiery has dominated and shaped the lives of people in the Hinckley area for
generations. Manufacturers followed fathers, grandfathers and great grandfathers into
the workplace, and whole families were employed in the manufacture of hosiery and
knitwear. Manufacturers have highlighted the importance of updating machinery and
attending exhibitions and fashion shows in order to remain competitive in an industry
dependent on the ‘whims of fashion’. Respondents have provided a unique insight into
the types of work and its influence on their lives. They have described the ‘larkingabout’,
camaraderie and activities in the workplace as well as highlighting that they not
only worked together but played together - the ‘monkey run’, dancing and the cinema
have all been discussed.
The research has highlighted the unique and dominant nature of the ‘hosiery’ in the
Hinckley area. However, the industry has been in decline for a number of years and
many of the factories have now been demolished or renovated for housing and
apartments.